A Temple Bar cafe owner has described the area as a 'warzone' as violence and attempted robberies plague local business owners.
Niall Sabongi took to Instagram to share photos of The Seafood Cafe's smashed windows after thieves attempted to break in last week. The owner said this is just one of several attacks in recent months and explained that neighbouring businesses were also being targeted.
He also added that violence and anti-social behaviour threatens many businesses trading in the area. He said that gangs of youths often run into the cafe and have made racial and sexual slurs against staff.
Niall told Dublin Live: "There’s nothing we can do because they tend to be minors. I’ve had staff cry and I’ve had staff resign because it’s simply not worth it."
The robberies are taking a toll on his cafe's finances, as it costs roughly €1,200 to replace smashed windows each time an attempted robbery unfolds. He added that a nearby business has had their windows smashed in at least eight times over the past few months.
He added: "We’ve had meetings with local Gardai and all they say is to keep emailing and ringing them. We understand where they’re coming from but it’s not good enough - we see gangs of youths kicking people's heads in outside all the time."
The cafe now keeps a larger first aid kit on hand due to attacks that often take place outside the premises. Niall is also reluctant to continue outdoor dining as gangs have resorted to stealing tables and chairs and smashing glasses as they walk past the cafe.
The business owner is hopeful that the Seafood Cafe can continue trading in Temple Bar but said that only a stronger Garda presence can address the worrying violence. He is currently seeking a new location for his second business, food shack Klaw, which also traded in Temple Bar.
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